Men can get breast cancer too

Breast cancer occurs mainly in women, but did you know that men can get it, too?

Many people do not realize that men also have breast tissue and can develop breast cancer. There are some things a man can do to lower his risk of breast cancer: maintaining an ideal body weight and restricting alcohol consumption are two of them. But since the cause of most breast cancers is not known, there is no known way to prevent them.

For now, the best things we can do to limit the number of deaths caused by this disease are early detection and prompt treatment. Early detection has been a problem for men, who may not notice breast lumps or see their doctor only when the lumps have gotten large. In general, men are diagnosed with breast cancers at more advanced stages than women.

For more information about breast cancer in men, visit cancer.org or call the American Cancer Society 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-227-2345.

If you are diagnosed, we’re there for you.

Every step of the way.

Together, we are stronger than cancer.

Possible systems of breast cancer in men include:

∫ A lump or swelling, which is usually (but not always) painless

∫ Skin dimpling or puckering

∫ Nipple retraction (turning inward)

∫ Redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin

∫ Discharge from the nipple

These changes aren’t always caused by cancer. Still, if you notice any breast changes, you should see a health care provider as soon as possible.